Ludwig Paischer gives Austria home victory after 10 years

Nothing but happiness in Oberwart when Austrian veteran Ludwig Paischer won the gold at the European Open. He knew it was his last time at the Austrian Open where Paischer has had a long and successful history with two victories in 2001 and 2006. Since Saturday he won a third title. After ten years of empty hands Austria could finally cheer for a home victory.

"This is definitely my last European Open where I will compete in Austria. Knowing this gave me the power to come into every fight with the right mood and was easier than the fight before. Also the atmosphere was fantastic and motivated me. Although I felt tired I had no problem to fight. Three minutes more would not have been a problem for me. I had the force with me today and the self confidence to win this tournament."

In the final Paischer faced Olympic bronze medallist from London Felipe Kitadai of Brazil. His last win against Kitadai was back in 2010 but the force was with Paischer’s today and everything seemed to be going well. His tactical strength proved enough as he edged past the Brazilian on the back of 1 shido to 3 to take a deserved gold medal.

The 100 points will give Paischer a more comfortable position to qualify for the Olympic Games in Rio, his fourth and last Olympics.

Gold for Mongolia’s Altansukh Dovdon in the category U66kg, his first World Cup medal in his career after 8 other medals. Dovdon ranked 16^th in the World defeated Egyptian Mohamed Abdelmawgoud in the final. In the semi final Dovdon overcame David Larose.

Didar Khamza was the winner U73kg. The Kazach defeated Brazilian Marcelo Contini and in the semi final Brazilian Alex Pombo.